Differences in sharks' brains key to repellents
Scientists in Western Australia say they have found evidence that shark repellents work best when they target particular species.
The research by a team of scientists at the Oceans Institute at the University of WA found significant neurological differences between different species.
They say it could lead to the development of shark repellent devices that target specific species, rather than offering so-called blanket protection from sharks.
The university's Shaun Collin says understanding the make-up of shark's brains and their behaviour could help to develop more effective devices.
"Once we understand the basics of these sensory systems and the neural basis of behaviour then we can then reduce the guesswork in producing deterrents and work towards protecting ourselves and importantly the sharks," he said.
"In time we hope that this can be applied at a personal level to deter sharks surrounding divers and swimmers et cetera.
"But, potentially down the track even from larger areas so we can be a little bit more comfortable about swimming off our coastline."